Catania Key Attractions

Catania is Sicily's second-largest city and is a major transport hub and commercial centre. It is one of the islands most historic and interesting cities. It was engulfed by Etna when it erupted in 1669, but was quickly rebuilt on a larger and more impressive scale. It now has one of the finest displays of Baroque architecture in Europe, much of it modelled from local materials and the black lava that originally destroyed the town. There are also a number of art treasures, museums and Roman ruins that are well worth seeing.

Piazza del Duomo

The main square in the city is both attractive and lively, and is conveniently located near to many of the tourist attractions. It contains the 18th century Elephant Fountain, which boasts a distinctive Egyptian obelisk on its back. It is made from lava, which is considered to be the symbol of the city. The square was rebuilt during the 18th century and is dominated by imposing Baroque buildings. The finest of these is probably the Municipio on the northern side of the piazza.

Cathedral (Duomo)

This 12th century cathedral is located right in the heart of the city and is perched above the surrounding buildings. It is best known as the resting place of the city's patron saint, Saint Agatha, and the tomb of the famous composer, Vincenzo Bellini. The cathedral was rebuilt following the eruption that destroyed much of the city, and without doubt its most striking feature is the huge dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. A beautiful view of the city can be seen by climbing the steps between the two shells of the cupola

Giovanni Verga's House Museum

Giovanni Verga was one of Italy's greatest writers, best known for the style of writing he helped to create, known as verismo, or literary realism. His former home is now a memorial to the man and can be found at via S. Anna 8. It contains many personal items and a library of over 3,000 volumes, with works by many great contemporary authors of his time.

Mount Etna

One of the most popular attractions on Sicily, Etna is the oldest recorded active volcano in the world. Standing at 3,330 metres high, its constant rumblings and unpredictable nature pose a danger for those living nearby. You don't need to be a mountaineer to climb the volcano, as there are several relatively easy options for visitors. There are trekking excursions and mountain bike trips that follow rough paths to the top of the crater. From here, you will have stunning views over Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. For the less adventurous, the tour on the old Circumetnea train is recommended, as it takes you to some beautiful medieval villages at the foot of the volcano.

Roman Amphitheatre

A large amphitheatre can be found close to the commercial centre in Piazza Stesicoro (at the intersection of via Etnea and Corso Sicilia). It dates back to the 2nd century BC and is considered only second to that of the Colosseum in Rome. It is located mostly below ground and only a small part of it remains visible. This huge complex could seat around 16,000 spectators and was 31 metres high. The lower corridor is well preserved and has a vast network of underground passages and alcoves. The variety of building materials used (basalt, calcareous stone and red bricks), suggests a number of architects were employed during the construction.

Ursino Castle

This huge castle was built between 1239 and 1250 by order of Frederick II of Hohenstaufen. It originally stood high above the sea, but due to the eruption of Mount Etna in 1669 and the subsequent lava flow, it is now hundreds of metres from the coast. It is the only medieval building that survived the destruction and is still almost intact today. Amongst its many uses, it has been a royal residence, a prison and is now currently the home of the Civic Museum, which houses a collection of paintings, sculptures and ceramics from various eras.

Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens date back to 1858 and occupy an area of 16,000 square metres, with a number of distinct sectors and themes. There are also some neo-classical buildings that are used as greenhouses, containing many rare and exotic plants. Another section features Sicily's various flora, grown on volcanic soil.